Preface of the Faculty of Health Sciences: 8th Annual Research Day ^†

1. Conference Introduction

This conference volume presents the proceedings of the Faculty of Health Sciences: 8th Annual Research Day (FHS Research Day 2025), held at the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Limpopo, from 17 to 18 September 2025. The conference was intended to create a dynamic platform for exchanging scientific insights, building professional networks, and engaging in meaningful discussions on advancing universal health coverage, particularly in the African context. The conference served as a forum for examining the challenges and opportunities regarding implementing National Health Insurance (NHI) in South Africa while advocating for inclusive health solutions that cut across gender, race, geographic location, and ethnicity.

2. Conference Committees

2.1. Organizing Committees

Ms. T.A. Ramalata, Faculty of Health Sciences

Ms. F.K. Mathye, Faculty of Health Sciences

Ms. M.M. Mphahlele, Faculty of Health Sciences

Ms. M. Mahlatjie, Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics

Dr. T. Malatji, Department Public Health Medicine

Ms. B. Mkhondo, Department Pre-Clinical Sciences

Mr. M. Maringa, Department of Pharmacy

Dr. R.A. Mabasa, Department of Public Health and Health System

2.2. Scientific Committees

Prof. D.T. Goon (Chairperson), Faculty of Health Sciences

Prof. S.D. Mathebula, Department of Optometry

Prof. M.M. Bopape, Human Nutrition and Dietetics

Dr. M.O. Mbombi, Department of Nursing Science

Dr. O. Gcilitshana, Department Pathology and Medical Sciences

Dr. I. Rukasha, Department of Pathology and Medical Sciences

Dr. M.P. Kekana, Department of Public Health

Dr. R.V. Vagiri, Department of Pharmacy

Prof. P.M. Mamogobo, Department of Nursing Science

3. Conference Topics

• Health promotion and education;
• Illness prevention strategies;
• Health treatment modalities;
• Rehabilitative health;
• Palliative health care;
• Healthcare accessibility;
• Mental-health-promotion strategies;
• Maternal and child (under five) mortality;
• Communicable and non-communicable diseases;
• Substance abuse prevention and treatment of diseases;
• Sexual and reproductive care, family planning, and education;
• Gender equity and gender-based violence;
• Other health-related topics.

4. Conference Speakers

Dr. Honours Mukhari from the Council of Medical Schemes, South Africa, presented on the topic, “Advancing Universal Health Coverage and Promoting the Well-Being of all Individuals.”

Professor Chantélle Baker from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, South Africa, presented on Research Ethics and Integrity.

Prof. Moeketsi Letseka from the University of South Africa presented on Promoting a culture of research and innovation.

5. Sponsors

The conference received sponsorship from the following organizations (Figure 1, Figure 2 and Figure 3):

6. Conference Awards

L.W. Mokhwelepa, Undergraduate Oral (first place)

R.W. Rihlampfu, Undergraduate Oral (second place)

J. Neuhoff, Postgraduate Oral (first place)

K.P. Seakamela, Postgraduate Oral (second place)

K. Ramatapa, Postgraduate Poster (first place)

Dr. G.O. Sumbane, Staff Oral (first place)

E.R. Maribeng, Staff Oral (second place)

G.R. Mashaba, Staff Poster (first place)